AMSTERDAM – A Finnish business which has developed smart technology that turns wood pulp directly into yarn without using any harmful chemicals or water or energy consuming steps in the process is set to scale after receiving the backing of Fashion for Good. Spinnova’s manufacturing process, which is said to use up to 99 per cent less water compared to cotton, is one of the world’s most promising new sustainable fibre options right now and – crucially – has offered evidence it could successfully be scaled.
Fashion for Good, established by the C&A Foundation, is a global innovation platform, at the heart of which is a scaling programme which offers support, expertise and capital for promising technologies in fashion sustainability.
Spinnova will now get the opportunity to connect to manufacturers, brands and investors capable of helping it fast-track the implementation and adoption of its nnovation. The business will be supported for a period of 18 months, “with clear and jointly defined milestones on a roadmap to scale.”
Spinnova has developed a disruptive cellulose fibre innovation that involves no dissolving or other complex chemical processes. This fibre has a uniquely small footprint and presents opportunities to create a circular fibre production system. Based in Finland, Spinnova is poised to reach industrial scale by year-end through its new pilot factory. Future business models include partnering with brands by licensing the technology or setting up joint ventures for fibre production.
CEO of Spinnova Janne Poranen: “We have a fantastic relationship with Fashion for Good and are very much looking forward to the programme. Working with brands and developing the fibre to suit specific applications is the way we have strategically chosen to commercialise our innovation.”
As a Scaling Programme participant, Spinnova gains access to Fashion for Good’s network of corporate partners, business advisors and industry experts, enabling it to accelerate the development and adoption of its technology.